Predicted Fulham Lineup To Face Brentford
Fulham are piling the pressure in the closing weeks of the Championship season, and have now firmly put themselves in pole position ahead of Leeds for a play-off place.
Their relative success shouldn’t be a surprise really; Fulham have the best goal difference in this division after Brighton and Newcastle United. Although Leeds also have a home game this weekend, it’s a tough one against Norwich and Fulham will know that another competent attacking display could end matters here against neighbours Brentford.
Both sides will be happy to attack and so this could be a very entertaining game, though if the Bees don’t manage to keep it tight they could well be on the end of a thrashing here from a side which has scored 2 or more goals in 6 of their last 8 games.
4-3-3 may be the way to go again, just as in their impressive 4-1 win at Huddersfield last time:
Probable Fulham XI:
Formation: 4-3-3
GK – Marcus Bettinelli
Having replaced Button for the last couple of games between the sticks, the youth team product is getting his chance to shine and will be dreaming of the Premier League.
RB – Denis Odoi
Replaced Fredericks at half time at the John Smith’s Stadium and is likely to start here.
CB – Tomas Kalas
The young Czech will need to be on his guard in what could be an open game. Staying solid here alongside Ream could be the ingredient which could send Fulham into the playoffs.
CB – Tim Ream
The experienced American defender knows what is expected and will not let anyone down. He should start at central defence.
LB – Scott Malone
One of the players of the season; the left-back will no doubt provide great support to Sessegnon down the left in an area which could decide the game.
CM – Tom Cairney
Whether he stays here next season or not, he remains one of Fulham’s most potent threats and will start again.
CM – Kevin McDonald
The 28-year-old is having a good first season here and will need to remain solid once more. Should start alongside Cairney
CM – Stefan Johansen
Still only 26, the former Celtic man has managed 11 league goals this season. He will provide a major threat on the left of the central midfield for Fulham, allied with Malone and Sessegnon.
RW – Floyd Ayite
Assuming Aluko takes up a central role, Ayite can attack from the right and will be looking for his 10th league goal of the season.
LW – Ryan Sessegnon
Still only 16, the full-back turned winger is dangerous and will either damage Brentford or provide the sort of distraction which allows Malone, Johansen, and Aluko to exploit Brentford.
ST – Sone Aluko
The former Rangers attacker will look to get at the Bees defence with his pace. Part of a very mobile front 3.